The form includes more than 40 questions, requiring every vessel to declare, among other details, its name, identification number, previous name, country of origin, and country of destination.
In a move that radically shifts the balance in the planet’s most vital maritime artery, Iran is imposing its own terms on the Strait of Hormuz. A document titled "Vessel Information Declaration," issued by Iran's Persian Gulf Straits Authority (PGSA), has come to light and must be completed by all transiting vessels to ensure their safe passage. The document was shared with CNN by Richard Meade, editor-in-chief of Lloyd’s List Intelligence—a maritime data and analysis service.
The form includes more than 40 questions, requiring every vessel to declare, among other details, its name, identification number, previous name, country of origin, and country of destination. It also requests the nationalities of the registered owner, the manager, and the crew members. Iran stated that it is restricting passage through the waterway for vessels linked to the US or Israel. Before February 28, when the US and Israel launched a war against Iran, ships did not have to share any information to cross the Strait, Meade reported. According to him, the list of requirements "appears quite similar to the questions we knew were already being asked of shipowners," adding however that this "formalizes the structure and appears to be a move by Iran to normalize its authority over transits."
On Tuesday (5/5/2026), Iran inaugurated the Persian Gulf Straits Authority (PGSA) to manage the transit. Under the new system, all vessels intending to cross the Strait will receive an email from an address linked to the PGSA, which will inform them of the transit regulations, according to Iran’s state-run Press TV. Awaiting developments... However, according to information from Saudi Arabia’s state television, Al-Hadath, a "significant development" regarding the restart of the movement of ships stranded in the Strait of Hormuz is expected "within the next few hours."
"Progress is expected regarding the ships trapped in the Straits in the coming hours," Al-Hadath reports. "According to information, agreements have been reached to ease the blockade in exchange for the gradual reopening of the Strait." This strategic passage is vital for Gulf energy exports, including those of Saudi Arabia, which was also targeted during the recent conflict with Iran. The Strait has remained largely closed since February, obstructing approximately 25% of global maritime oil trade and forcing ships into costly rerouting.
At least 1,550 ships stranded
At least 1,550 ships are currently waiting for permission from Iran to pass through the Straits of Hormuz, said Behnam Saidi, a member of the Iranian parliament's national security and foreign policy committee. "To date, 1,550 ships in the Straits of Hormuz are waiting for permission from Iran. They know they do not have the right to move without authorization," stated Behnam Saidi. According to Saidi, previously between 130 and 140 ships passed through the Straits of Hormuz daily, while currently maritime traffic has decreased by 95%.
Optimism from Pakistan
Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the news of a potential agreement between Iran and the US, adding that it will not disclose more information at this stage. "As mediators, we will not lose the trust of both sides by revealing details," it said in a statement cited by Al Jazeera. It added that, although there is no information on which country could host the delegations for a new round of talks, "it would be an honor for us if this took place in Islamabad." However, it is clarified that Pakistan is not preparing direct talks between American and Iranian officials...
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